ONE of the north west’s largest steam and vintage events returns to Daresbury at the weekend.

The owners of more than 60 historic traction engines – 40 full-sized and 24 miniature – are travelling from all over the UK for Outdoor Shows’ annual Cheshire Steam Fair.

There will also be hundreds of vintage cars, lorries and buses, classic motorcycles, military vehicles and vintage tractors at the family day out just off Chester Road.

They will all be exhibited for enthusiasts to see on the field before taking part in an arena parade.

The arena will be the focal point for events throughout the day with a full programme on Saturday and Sunday between 11am and 5pm.

Among the main acts is Stunt World featuring motorbike stunts, car jumps and trick riding while away from the arena one of the longest running and most popular attractions is Ken Fox’s Wall of Death, the oldest surviving Wall of Death in the UK.

Richard Ashworth, who runs Outdoor Shows, said: “The Wall of Death has been synonymous with speed and danger since its conception back in the early part of the 20th century.

“The original Wall of Death harks back to those early days, with the wall being constructed in 1929 and the bikes, Indian Scouts, made in 1928.

“All those who see the show will remember it for the rest of their life. The noise, the speed, the smell, the proximity of the bikes ridden to the top of the vertical wall only inches from the audience is a truly unique experience and one not to be missed.

“This event is not only for the steam enthusiast but it also provides a fantastic day out for the whole family with plenty to keep the children entertained all day long.

“Try out the old time or modern funfair rides, quad rides, Punch and Judy show, a giant inflatable complete with slides and castles, sand art, face painting, birds of prey display, trampolines and much more.”

There will also be trade stalls and an autojumble for the real enthusiasts alongside an indoor craft, gift and food marquee.

Cheshire Steam Fair is at Daresbury on Saturday and Sunday. Gates open at 10am and close at 5pm on both days.

Tickets can be bought at the gate and cost £10 (£8 for over 65s, £5 for under 16s and £25 for a family of five). Under fives are free

Camping and caravanning is available and a pitch costs £60 which includes family admission.

Pitches are available from midday on Friday until midday on Monday. For more information visit outdoorshows.co.uk.